As of May 2025, the regulation of artificial food dyes in the United States is undergoing significant changes at both state and federal levels. Here’s an overview addressing your questions:
U.S. States Banning Artificial Food Dyes
At least 11 U.S. states have enacted or proposed bans on artificial food dyes, particularly targeting Red Dye No. 3. States such as California, New York, Illinois, Maryland, Missouri, and New Jersey have implemented or are considering restrictions. California has been a pioneer, banning Red Dye No. 3 and other additives from foods sold statewide, with the law taking effect in 2027. Additionally, California has prohibited several synthetic dyes, including Red No. 40 and Yellow No. 5, from being served in public schools starting in 2028 .
Health Risks of Artificial Food Dyes
Artificial food dyes have been associated with various health concerns:
- Behavioral Issues in Children: Studies have linked dyes like Red No. 40 and Yellow No. 5 to hyperactivity, irritability, and attention problems in children, potentially exacerbating ADHD symptoms.
- Allergic Reactions: Some dyes can cause hypersensitivity reactions, including hives and asthma.
- Cancer Risks: Red Dye No. 3 has been shown to cause cancer in animal studies, leading to its ban in certain jurisdictions .
RFK Jr.’s Plan to Phase Out Food Dyes
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has announced a federal initiative to phase out eight petroleum-based synthetic food dyes, including Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, and Blue No. 1. The plan aims to remove these dyes from the U.S. food supply by the end of 2026, with the FDA working alongside food manufacturers to facilitate the transition
Steps U.S. Citizens Can Take
While the phase-out is underway, consumers can take proactive measures to minimize exposure:
- Read Labels: Avoid products listing synthetic dyes such as Red No. 3, Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, and Blue No. 1.
- Choose Natural Alternatives: Opt for foods colored with natural ingredients like beet juice, turmeric, or spirulina.SELF+1Deseret News+1
- Limit Processed Foods: Reduce consumption of candies, brightly colored cereals, and sugary beverages, which often contain artificial dyes.
International Regulations on Food Dyes
Canada: While Canada has not banned Red Dye No. 3, it regulates its use, allowing a maximum concentration of 300 parts per million in foods. Health Canada maintains a list of permitted food colors, including certain synthetic dyes, but continues to monitor and assess their safety.
European Union: The EU has not outright banned all artificial food dyes but enforces strict regulations. Foods containing certain dyes must carry warning labels indicating potential adverse effects on children’s activity and attention. This has led many manufacturers to replace synthetic dyes with natural alternatives in European markets.
Asia: Regulations vary across Asian countries. For instance, in 2009, Myanmar faced a scandal involving the use of unauthorized dyes in pickled tea leaves, leading neighboring countries like Malaysia and Singapore to ban imports of affected products.
While the U.S. is moving toward stricter regulations on artificial food dyes, consumers can take immediate steps to reduce exposure by being vigilant about food labels and choosing products with natural colorings.
-Nguyễn Bách Khoa-
Sources for Further Reading:
- Environmental Working Group (EWG) – Interactive Map of State Regulations
https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news/2025/03/interactive-map-tracking-state-food-chemical-regulation-us - Scientific American – What We Know About Artificial Food Dyes and Health
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/what-we-know-about-artificial-food-dyes-and-health-as-rfk-jr-declares-a-u-s - Newsweek – Map: 11 States With Food Dye Bans
https://www.newsweek.com/map-11-states-food-dye-bans-1961920 - ABC News – RFK Jr. Plan to Phase Out Artificial Food Dyes
https://abcnews.go.com/US/rfk-jr-plans-phase-artificial-food-dyes-us/story?id=121034287 - FDA – HHS and FDA Joint Announcement on Food Dye Phase-Out
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/hhs-fda-phase-out-petroleum-based-synthetic-dyes-nations-food-supply - Health Canada – List of Permitted Colouring Agents
https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/food-nutrition/food-safety/food-additives/lists-permitted/3-colouring-agents.html - Trash Panda App – U.S. Additives Banned in Europe
https://www.trashpandaapp.com/blog/us-food-additives-banned-in-europe - Henry Ford Health – Risks of Artificial Food Dyes
https://www.henryford.com/blog/2025/01/health-risks-of-artificial-food-dyes